What Specific Benefits Do Employees Value Most?

When it comes to choosing where to build their careers, nowadays, employees look beyond salary alone, with the benefits on offer often making a real difference.  

At Howden Group, we see first-hand how certain employee benefits aren’t just nice extras but are among the top elements staff value. Below, we explore the benefits that consistently rank highly (and how Howden delivers them). 

Healthcare Benefits 

Fast, reliable healthcare benefits are among the most valued by employees. Whether it’s private medical insurance, dental cover, or health cash plans, the ability to see specialists, avoid long waiting times, and receive treatment quickly is a major advantage. 

Beyond the practical advantages, healthcare benefits show employees that their wellbeing is a genuine priority. Staff who feel supported in managing their health tend to have higher engagement, improved morale, and fewer long-term absences. Howden’s healthcare packages make it easier for employees to stay healthy, focused, and productive. 

Income Protection 

Illness or injury can strike anyone, and the financial impact of being unable to work can be significant. Howden’s group income protection services provide a safety net, ensuring employees continue to receive income during prolonged illness or injury. This reduces financial stress and helps people concentrate on recovery. 

Income protection doesn’t just safeguard finances; it gives employees the confidence to recover fully without worrying about immediate bills. The reassurance it provides reduces stress during difficult times and supports a smoother, more sustainable return to work. Here at Howden Group, we work with employers to tailor income protection schemes that reflect the specific needs of their workforce. 

Critical Illness Cover

A serious diagnosis can bring both emotional strain and sudden financial pressures. Critical illness cover helps employees manage these challenges by providing a tax-free lump sum following a qualifying diagnosis, allowing employees to prepare for unexpected scenarios and offering valuable peace of mind. 

The value of critical illness cover often extends beyond financial support. Many policies include access to specialist advice and additional services that help employees navigate a difficult diagnosis. This way, employees feel reassured they won’t face serious health challenges alone, and employers demonstrate a commitment to their team’s welfare. 

Group Life Assurance (Death in Service)

Life assurance is a benefit many employees hold in high regard. It provides a lump sum payout to beneficiaries in the event of an employee’s death, offering security for loved ones.  

Life assurance reflects a company’s care for its people and their families. Employees who feel their loved ones are protected tend to feel more secure, which strengthens workplace culture and loyalty. Howden ensures that these policies are easy to understand and deliver genuine reassurance. 

Pensions & Financial Wellbeing

Long-term benefits like pensions and financial wellbeing initiatives show that employers are thinking about their employees’ future, not just the present. 

Pensions and financial wellbeing initiatives encourage long-term loyalty while offering employees confidence in their financial security. Employees value knowing that their employer is investing in their future, and Howden’s approach ensures pension schemes are flexible, practical, and tailored to workforce needs. 

Why Employers Should Prioritise These Benefits

Offering the right mix of benefits does more than support employees; it signals that their health, security, and wellbeing are priorities. Benefits like healthcare, income protection, critical illness cover, life assurance, and pensions help attract and retain talent, reduce absenteeism, and improve morale. They also often bring tax efficiencies, making them a smart investment for employers as well as employees. 

At Howden Group, we believe that benefits packages should start with listening. What does your workforce truly need? Which benefits will make the biggest impact? Once those needs are understood, we help design packages that balance value, cost, and practicality. Well-designed employee benefits are not only appreciated by staff, but they also contribute to a more engaged, productive, and loyal workforce. 

If you’d like to find out more about how Howden Group can help with your employee benefits packages, get in touch with our team of experts today.